General description of cold sprayed coatings formation and of their properties

This paper intends to describe the formation of cold sprayed coatings and their properties based on latest works. Thermodynamic aspects of the cold spray process are discussed, including the main factors influencing powder particles velocity, e.g. nozzle construction, gas type, powder morphology as well as its significance for coating quality. The phenomenon of coating building is illustrated using both numerical simulation and microstructure analysis. Particular emphasis is placed on the description of critical and erosion velocities. Microstructure and coating properties have also been discussed, i.e. porosity, electrical conductivity and residual stresses based on own research. These are further supplemented by a literature review. Finally, clear division between the low and high pressure cold spray method is made.